WR Torrey Smith - San Francisco 49ers

Summary

For $22 million guaranteed, Smith was brought in to serve as the consistent downfield threat the team has tried to provide in the forms of Brandon Lloyd, Randy Moss, Braylon Edwards, and Mario Manningham. None of those options quite compared to what the 49ers may have in Smith as legitimate options to open up the 49er passing game. One of the league's elite deep threats, the truth about Smith is that, despite some bouts with inconsistency, he's been a very effective wideout all over the field in his four seasons.
The main question we need answered before plunking down a WR2 investment is whether he develops chemistry with Kaepernick. The two are well-suited and could really maximize each other's skill sets; Smith moves from one cannon arm (Joe Flacco) to another, theoretically providing Kaepernick with the reliable deep outlet he's literally never had.
Beautiful music could be made, but it's likely to be of the sporadic variety. The 49ers' is almost certain to remain a run-dominant offense - only Russell Wilson has attempted fewer passes since 2013 as Kaepernick - that utilizes the deep-ball connection strategically, not frequently. And it's hard to get too excited over Smith's red zone track record, considering the 49ers find themselves there far less often than the Ravens have. Like teammate Anquan Boldin in recent years, Smith's fantasy outlook is likely that of a WR3 flashing occasional WR1/2 weeks, but relying on a low-volume offense for scoring opportunity. (May 15)